The JRMC Foundation recently announced that Jim and Susan Matthiesen are this year’s Philanthropists of the Year.

The couple received the award during the Pillars of Giving event at Jamestown Regional Medical Center, which honors the extraordinary contributions of philanthropy and volunteerism.

The JRMC Foundation accepts applications from individuals, community partners and young people who will be recognized for their contributions. The winners and nominees are honored during the celebration.

“They are the personification of grace, gratitude and giving,” said Cindy Tag Nygord, JRMC administrative assistant, who nominated them for the award. “Whenever there was a way to give back, make a difference, or make someone’s day a little brighter, Susan was sure to find it. She has a positive impact on the people and organizations that she brings. ‘she touches.”

The Matthiesens have helped support the JRMC for events such as GOLF “fore ANGELS” and Employee Giving. They made sure others were involved as well by sponsoring teams for staff and auction items. Their donation is not limited to JRMC. As a member of the Sertoma Club, Susan has provided hearing aids and services to the hearing impaired. The Matthiesen gifts also benefit the animals of the James River Humane Society and the children of St. John’s Academy.

Susan started as a JRMC audiologist in 1996 and retired in 2019. She was always among the first to step in and say, “How can I help? His actions earned him a JRMC Legend Award in 2018. The Legend Award is the most prestigious honor bestowed upon a JRMC employee, recognizing employees who exceed expectations and perform the difference in the lives of those they serve.

“Susan and Jim have been our dearest friends since they met in 2002,” said Marty Richman, former CEO of Jamestown Hospital. “They both have a truly generous nature which is inspiring. Susan has never missed an opportunity to help someone and preferred no recognition for the same. It’s giving from the heart.

“No one deserves to be recognized for their generosity more than Matthiesens,” said Lisa Jackson, Director of the JRMC Foundation. “They have a hard time accepting accolades because that’s not what drives their passion. They really care about appreciating and caring for others.”

At Pillars of Giving, JRMC also recognized the following for their support:

Community Difference Partner – JRMC Auxiliary

Exceptional sowing – Medina FFA

Legendary Volunteer – Joyce Roorda

Auxiliary of the Year – Marlene Axtman

Volunteer of the Year – Judy Olin